A rain cover helps with exposure, but essential contents need their own protection. Organise the pack around what must stay dry.
Protect critical items
Put spare insulation and sleeping items in suitable inner bags. Give electronics and documents separate protection. Test closures before departure and follow instructions for roll-top bags rather than overfilling them.
Separate wet equipment
Do not pack damp socks or rainwear against dry clothing. Carry a separate bag and repack deliberately at stops. Keep essentials accessible so you need not empty the pack in rain.
Know the limits
Liners can puncture and poorly closed bags can leak. A cover does not make the pack suitable for immersion or an unsafe crossing. Read backpack organisation, then test the complete system with your real kit. An orderly dry pack is easier to use during an Atlas day than several loose bags packed at the last minute.
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Editorial team